An Arkansas father awaiting trial for murder after killing the man accused of raping his teenage daughter has won the Republican nomination for sheriff in Lonoke County, a suburban county in Arkansas.

Aaron Spencer secured the GOP primary victory Tuesday with 53.53% of the vote, defeating two challengers, according to the Arkansas Secretary of State. The county is a conservative stronghold where Donald Trump won by large margins in the 2016, 2020, and 2024 U.S. presidential elections.

Murder Charge Still Pending

Spencer is currently facing second-degree murder charges in connection with the October 2024 death of Michael Fosler, a 67-year-old man who had been charged with dozens of sexual crimes involving Spencer’s daughter, who was 13 years old at the time.

According to court records, Fosler faced 43 felony charges, including internet stalking of a child, fourth-degree sexual assault, and sexual indecency with a child.

Authorities say the confrontation occurred after Spencer discovered a suspicious item — described as a “hoodie on a stuffed animal” — in his daughter’s bed. Investigators say Spencer later found Fosler’s truck with his daughter inside and forced the vehicle off the road.

Court documents state the two men entered an altercation, after which Spencer allegedly shot Fosler. Spencer later called 911 to report the shooting.

At the time of the incident, Fosler had already been arrested on the sexual offense charges but was out on bond, according to reporting by the Associated Press.

Campaign Built on Justice System Criticism

Despite the pending case, Spencer launched a campaign for sheriff in October 2025, arguing that his family’s experience exposed failures within the justice system.

In his campaign announcement video, Spencer said:

“Through my own fight for justice, I have seen firsthand the failures in law enforcement and in our circuit court.”

His campaign platform focuses on restoring trust in law enforcement and preventing other families from experiencing similar circumstances.

Spencer has denied the criminal charges and says he intends to fight them in court.

What Happens Next

Spencer will now advance to the general election for Lonoke County sheriff, though the outcome of his pending murder trial could have major implications for both his candidacy and his future in law enforcement.

The case has drawn national attention and sparked debate over vigilante justice, parental protection, and failures in the criminal justice system, particularly when suspects accused of crimes against children are released on bond.